 |
|
The INDIA alliance, a formidable coalition of opposition parties aiming to unseat the BJP in the upcoming general elections, is experiencing internal friction, particularly in Jharkhand. Barely a day after announcing a seat-sharing agreement, cracks began to emerge, revealing deep-seated tensions between the alliance partners.
The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), a key player in the alliance, has publicly expressed its dissatisfaction with the seat-distribution formula, labeling it “unilateral.” RJD MP Manoj Jha articulated his party's concerns, emphasizing that less than 12-13 seats was unacceptable, given their stronghold in 18-20 constituencies. While affirming their commitment to defeating the BJP, the RJD hinted at the possibility of contesting the elections independently, supporting the alliance's candidates in a limited number of constituencies.
The JMM, led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, and the Congress have also found themselves locked in a stalemate over the allocation of seats. Sources within the JMM indicate that Soren is unhappy with the Congress’s demand to give the RJD more seats from the JMM’s quota. These disagreements stem from a perceived imbalance in the proposed distribution of seats, with the JMM allegedly feeling pressured to accommodate the RJD’s demands.
The original agreement saw the JMM securing 50 seats and accommodating left-leaning parties within their allotted share. The Congress was to contest 31 seats, with the RJD expected to negotiate its share from the Congress's quota. However, the RJD's assertive stance has complicated the situation, creating friction between the JMM and Congress. The JMM accuses the RJD of unrealistic expectations, highlighting their limited electoral success in the state.
Further complicating the situation are instances of BJP and AJSUP leaders defecting to the JMM, creating a sense of unease within the Congress. The Congress feels that their interests are being sidelined by the JMM, particularly concerning strategically important seats like Ranchi and Bhawnathpur. The Congress’s concerns are amplified by the perceived unfairness of the JMM offering tickets to former Congress leaders who had previously joined the BJP. This perceived betrayal has led to significant demoralization among local Congress workers.
The Congress, facing mounting pressure, is considering reducing its seat expectation from 29 to 25. This move signals their desperation and highlights the power dynamics at play within the INDIA alliance. The Congress is forced to concede to the JMM’s demands, creating a sense of vulnerability within the party. The future of the INDIA alliance in Jharkhand remains uncertain, with the upcoming elections potentially revealing the true extent of their internal divisions.